Girl Scout Camp Covington volunteer day June 10

I remember going to Camp Covington when my daughters were in Girl Scouts many years ago. I remember thinking what a delightful way it was to spend a summer day, out there among the pine trees and on the banks of a scenic river, enjoying new adventures and good friends.

Camp Covington, just off Louisiana 25 north of Covington, is making a comeback from the devastation wrought by Katrina.

Girl Scouts were out in force last summer, enjoying nature and good times during the Scouting day camps.

Now they are getting ready to gear up for some fun again.

But before that happens, the Scouts are looking for some help.

Following successful community fundraising, the Covington Girl Scouts in Service Unit 380 are moving forward on their Girl Scouts 100th Anniversary Take Action project.

As part of Take Action, the girls decided to build stairs down the bank of the Bogue Falaya River at Camp Covington.

The Scouts are asking for some help on Sunday, from 8 a.m. until the project is complete.

“We’re holding a family day and general camp clean-up on (Sunday), so even the littlest Girl Scout can be a part of this project,” said Debbie Melancon, administrator for the Covington service unit.

“However, we are still in need of volunteers to assist with the construction of the stairs.”

Under the direction of Girl Scout dad Steve Rorex, stairs are being built down the steep river bank to allow for easier access to the shallow water for wading, according to a Girl Scout news release.

Melancon said community business donations and fundraisers at local restaurants have helped support the Take Action project.

Now they want to use the money to complete the project.

The Girl Scout volunteers hope to see their project become a reality in time for two big events: the Mandeville Girl Scouts will hold their weeklong day and twilight camps at Camp Covington June 18-22, and the Covington day camp is planned for June 25-29.

“Girl Scouts have enjoyed playing in the river since the camp was built back in the 1920s,” said Melancon.

“It feels good to know that our efforts will be of a lasting benefit to generations of Girl Scouts to come.”

As of now, approximately 30-35 people have volunteered to help with the stairs project on Sunday, organizers said.

This number includes adults, girls, and siblings, organizers say, but there is always a need for more.

“We would love more volunteers,” Melancon said.

To volunteer on Sunday or for additional information, contact Melancon at 893.2133.

Food will be provided for volunteers, including a crawfish boil about 3 p.m.

Sandwiches and other snacks also will be provided earlier in the day.

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Karen Baker can be reached at kbaker@timespicayune.com or 985.898.4826.